What Does Inventory Car Mean?
2 Answers
Inventory cars generally refer to vehicles that have been in stock for over a year without being sold. Below are relevant details: 1. Vehicle Identification Plate: Every car has its own 'ID card', known as the vehicle identification plate. The plate contains various information, including the engine model, engine displacement, and the vehicle's production date. The identification plate is usually located on one side of the engine, sometimes in a more concealed spot. Some plates can be found on the left side when opening the right car door. Additionally, for vans, the plate is typically on the pillar behind the passenger seat. 2. Front Windshield: The production date of the windshield glass can usually be found in the corner of the front windshield. Unless the glass has been replaced due to damage, this date should not differ significantly from the vehicle's overall production date. 3. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Below the front windshield, there is a 17-digit VIN code, commonly referred to as the vehicle identification number. It is broadly divided into three parts: the World Manufacturer Identifier (positions 1-3), the Vehicle Descriptor Section (positions 4-9), and the Vehicle Identifier Section (positions 10-17). The most crucial digit to note is the 10th one, which indicates the year of manufacture. If this year is significantly earlier than the current year, the car is likely a long-term inventory vehicle. 4. Engine: Under normal circumstances, the engine compartment should be relatively clean. The engine should start quickly, run smoothly without shaking, and produce minimal vibration when touched. Inside the car, the sound of the engine running should be barely audible.
Inventory cars are essentially those vehicles that were produced and then left sitting at dealerships for several months without being sold. As an ordinary buyer, I've recently been looking into this matter. Cars that have been sitting for a long time may develop certain issues, such as battery drain, deteriorated engine oil, or tire deformation. However, the upside is that they're usually significantly cheaper, potentially saving you thousands. I once purchased an inventory car myself, and my advice is to thoroughly check the maintenance records before taking delivery, test drive to listen to the engine sound, and not just focus on the lower price while overlooking potential risks. Additionally, with new car models being released so quickly these days, inventory cars are often older versions. While their performance may still be decent, it's crucial to verify whether the warranty period starts from the manufacturing date to avoid future troubles. In short, understanding the nature of inventory cars can help you make a smart purchasing decision.
